Illinois’ Coleman Hawkins will declare for the 2023 NBA Draft while maintaining his college eligibility, he told College Hoops Today on Tuesday.
The 6-10 Hawkins averaged 9.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, and three assists last season. He is projected to be a late first or early second round pick.
Hawkins didn’t rule out returning to Illinois next season, but wants to be a part of a contender if he does come back to school.
“I want to be on a roster that has a chance to do something big — win a national title,” Hawkins said. “I hope if I do come back that we will have a more veteran team and a chance of being a really great team.”
Illinois finished 20-13 and lost to Arkansas in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.
Leftovers
- The Breakfast Buffet: Tobe Awaka, Nebraska’s defense, Texas/Kentucky
- INSIDE COLLEGE BASKETBALL NOW (1/20): Guest — Virginia’s Ryan Odom
- The Breakfast Buffet: Michigan returns home, Seton Hall/St. John’s, Kansas hits the road at Colorado
- INSIDE COLLEGE BASKETBALL NOW (1/19): Florida, Kentucky, The ACC, The Big East, JT Toppin, Darryn Peterson
- The Breakfast Buffet: Brad Brownell, Florida, St. John’s is thriving on the road
